Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeships

Level 4 apprenticeships combine academic challenge with hands-on experience in the real world.

Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeships

Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for those who want to be academically challenged but also want to gain real world experience at the same time!

There’s a really simple way of understanding qualifications. They’re all given a number between 1 and 8, where 1 is made up of low GCSE grades (grades 3,2 & 1 or grades D,E,F & G) and 8 is a PhD (a doctorate) – the highest level of qualification from a University. Level 4 sits in the middle of this and is the next level up from A-levels, Level 3 BTECs, Scottish Highers and other equivalents. By doing a Level 4 apprenticeships you’ll gain a Level 4 qualification which is the equivalent to a Foundation degree or HND.

As a Level 4 apprentice, you will find yourself being academically challenged due to the level of the qualification, therefore you may need formal qualifications to be accepted onto the programme. Entry requirements likely include level 3 qualifications, such as a level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship, A-Levels, Scottish Highers or a Level 3 BTEC or NVQ. As many current employees are also put through level 4 apprenticeships, you may not need recent qualifications but instead need a considerable level of experience in the discipline of the apprenticeship.

Your Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeship can take anywhere from one to five years for you to complete. As an apprentice, you’ll spend most of your time working with an employer on projects which are directly related to the topics included in your apprenticeship. At level 4, there is a wide selection covering almost every job type. You’ll also spend 20% of your time studying at a college, university or training provider working towards your qualification with people from a wide range of different employers, giving you the perfect time to meet other like-minded apprentices. Everything you learn you’ll also be able to apply back to your everyday work, making your day-to-day job that little bit easier!

Don’t forget one of the most important things through all of this; you’ll be paid! As an apprentice, you’ll be paid at least Apprentice Minimum wage for the first year of your apprenticeship and then National Minimum Wage for your age group after that. However, we’ve seen some higher apprenticeships pay over £20,000 per annum from your first year – that’s a salary many graduates would be happy to receive! You’ll have the same benefits as other employees at your organisations, which includes paid holiday and as you’re an apprentice you’ll be able to get student discounts too. Don’t mind if I do!

Level 4 apprenticeships are a great opportunity if you want to academically challenge yourself but also want to start working in a professional environment.

FAQs

What are Level 4 apprenticeships like?

As a Level 4 apprentice, you’ll spend 80% of your time working with your employer and the rest of your time studying towards your level 4 qualification. You’ll be working at the office, factory, onsite or even working remotely depending on your employer and job requirements. You’ll also be studying with a university, college or training provider either in-person or online with plenty of opportunities to put your learning into practise in your day job.

Every apprenticeship is different because your employer is different and there will be a variety of projects that you could get involved with. Search opportunities and look at the job description to see exactly what you could be doing, but before you know it you could be managing projects, processes and even people as part of your programme!

You’ll be able to network and meet other like-minded people at work and those who have chosen the same route as you by doing an apprenticeship with your training provider, college or university. You’ll make new friends and likely have regular social events through work and your training provider!

What qualifications do I get?

If you chose to do a level 4 (higher) apprenticeship, you’ll gain a Apprenticeship at level 4 which might also include a qualification which could be a HND, Level 4 NVQ or BTEC, something from a professional body or a Foundation degree. You could also get – or work towards - chartered status in your role. This means being professionally recognised for your skills, knowledge and experience. In many areas of work, membership of a professional body is more important than a qualification on its own.

You could also work towards additional Functional Skills qualifications in maths and English too.

What’s the difference between level 4 and other higher apprenticeships?

Like all apprenticeships you will spend 80% of your time with the employer and 20% of your time working towards your qualification. The bit that varies with each apprenticeship is the level of qualification that you work towards, as well as the employer or training provider you choose. Level 4 apprenticeships are the lowest level of ‘Higher Apprenticeship’. It means that you’ll get a Level 4 qualification at the end of it, whereas if you choose a level 7 apprenticeship, you’ll get a Level 7 qualification at the end of it.

How do they work?

The way an apprenticeship work depends on the apprenticeship you choose to do and the employer and training provider that you choose. You’ll spend 20% of your time working towards a qualification, it is just how this is worked out could change. You might spend once a week training or spend block release away from work and training. The way this training is conducted also varies. You might train online in the workplace, at home or go to an external training provider, college or university.

Can I do a level 4 apprenticeship?

Entry requirements for level 4 apprenticeships vary depending on the employer and training provider that you apply through, however there are some basic requirements most (but not all) level 4 apprenticeships will require. You’ll likely need to have level 3 qualifications, such as a level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship, A-Levels, BTEC or NVQ. However, you may also be able to do the apprenticeship if you have relevant experience, or if you are retraining. We know of some graduates who are offered a Level 4 apprenticeship to gain new knowledge and skills when leaving University.

If you search for opportunities on the GetMyFirstJob website, entry requirements are listed for each opportunity, so you’ll know what you’ll need to get in. If you’re unsure, contact the person at the bottom of the opportunity listing!

What kind of Level 4 apprenticeships are there?

There are over 105 level 4 (higher) apprenticeships that you can do in the UK, some of them include:

Animal trainer
Associate Project Manager
Brewer
Business Analyst
Countryside ranger
Data Analyst
Marketing Executive
Network Engineer
Oral health practitioner
Senior culinary chef
Software Developer
Space engineering technician
Sports Coach
Town planning assistant

What does an employer look for in my application?

Level 4 (higher) apprenticeships can be competitive, as they are a great stepping stone into the world of work or a new discipline and there are always a limited number available. As with all jobs, make sure you know what the employer is looking for and tailor your application to explain why you’re a great candidate! If you’ve been able to gain some work experience, make sure you include that too. This doesn’t have to be a full-time job, a part-time role while you were at college or school would be a perfect example to show that you can handle the work/study/life balance. This will let them know that you can reliably hold down a job and possess good time management and prioritisation skills.

If you don’t have much experience, there are still ways that you can impress an employer. Make sure you emphasise these key skills on your application, whether that’s by using examples from extra-curricular activities or taking from experiences that you had at school, college or in your free time. To help you out with applications, we have compiled the three key traits that we think employers are looking for in our abundant experience operating alongside them:

Enthusiasm
You’ll need a genuine interest in the role and degree subject to work independently. It’s three years of your life – you’ll want enthusiasm to complete your work even when it gets tough!
Character
You’ll need to be mature enough to participate in the workplace and follow the etiquette there. That means someone who is dedicated to their work, studies and is a good fit for the company will be a crucial aspect of the apprenticeship application. Often, employers will use psychometric tests in the application process to find out more about you as a person – they’ll maybe even uncover things that you didn’t know about yourself!
Academic Ability
This is a very challenging option, and your employer doesn’t want to set you up to fail; after all, it’s in their best interests as well that you succeed! Grades aren’t everything, but you’ll need to make sure you can take on some of the harder academic aspects of the position.

What support will I get?

As a level 4 apprentice, you’ll get support from your employer and your training provider to ensure that you succeed in both your role and your qualification too. You’ll have someone at the training provider who will help you through the qualification and a manager in your workplace who will support you in your day-to-day job. You may even get a workplace mentor from the training provider or your employer who can help you with things you may not want to talk to your manager about, often mentors are people who have recently finished an apprenticeship themselves so can offer some sound advice!

How much does it cost?

Apart from commuting costs and the odd meal-deal if you’re working in the office or onsite, an apprenticeship is completely free, in fact you’ll be paid for doing an apprenticeship!

You’ll be paid at least Apprentice Minimum wage for the first year of your apprenticeship and then National Minimum Wage for your age group after that. We’ve seen some higher apprenticeships pay over £20,000 per annum from your first year – that’s a salary graduates would be happy to receive!

Are level 4 apprenticeships difficult?

Working towards a level 4 qualification on its own can be challenging as it will likely be the highest level of qualification you’ve worked towards. It’s true what people say that between college (level 3) and your first year of university (level 4) is probably the biggest academic jump you’ll make.

On top of this, you’ll also be working for four days a week, or 80% of your time, so you’ll have less time than people working towards a qualification full-time. But don’t worry, if you are successful in a level 4 apprenticeship application, your employer and training provider believe in you and want you to succeed, so they’ll support you to achieve everything you can!

What happens after the apprenticeship ends?

At the end of your level 4 (higher) apprenticeship, there are a few different things that could happen. You could be offered a permanent position at your current employer or you could be offered to go onto a different apprenticeship at a higher level. You should also consider the possibility that there isn’t a position for you at the end of your apprenticeship, so you could move onto a different qualification, employer or apprenticeship – your future is in your hands!

You’ll have the same benefits as other employees at your organisations, which includes paid holiday and as you’re an apprentice you’ll be able to get student discounts too.

Apprenticeships

Intermediate (Level 2) Advanced (Level 3) Higher (Level 4) Higher (Level 5) Degree (Level 6) Professional (Level 7)

Work Experience & Short-Term

Work Experience Traineeships Skills Bootcamps Internships

Education & Graduate

University Graduate Roles

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeships

Business Analyst Apprentice

QA Apprenticeships

pstrongEmployer description:strongp pMawdsleys Ltd are a pharmaceutical wholesaler offering a wide range of services to the healthcare sector and pharmaceutical industry. Their commitment to excellence and high service levels has gained the company its reputation as a leading partner to the healthcare sector, both primary and secondary care, pharmaceutical industry, and academic institutes.p pThey are an enthusiastic about talent and look to grow individuals where they can and provide a great team and working environment.They are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Business Analyst Apprentice to join the company.p pstrongOverview:strongp pThis apprenticeship is ideal for someone who is passionate about analysis and problem-solving, and wants to grow their skills in business analysis. You will work closely with senior team members to support projects that analyse, document, and improve business processes. This apprenticeship offers a hands-on learning experience in a fast-paced environment and an opportunity to build skills for a career in business analysis.p pstrongResponsibilities:strongp ul listrongAnalysing business processes and systems: strongAssist in gathering, analysing and interpreting information from various sources to support business decisions and identify trends, patterns, and insights.li listrongProcess documentation: strongSupport the documentation of existing business processes, workflows, and requirements by observing operations and collaborating with team members.li listrongRequirements gathering: strongWork with stakeholders to gather and document business requirements, ensuring a clear understanding of project needs and objectives.li listrongReporting & presentations:strong Prepare reports, summaries, and presentations for various stakeholders using tools like Excel, PowerPoint, and other data visualization tools.li listrongTesting & validation: strongParticipate in user acceptance testing (UAT) and validate business requirements against delivered solutions.li listrongProject support: strongAssist in project planning and coordination tasks, helping to track timelines, risks, and deliverables.li listrongStakeholder communication: strongLearn to communicate effectively with stakeholders to clarify requirements, present findings, and gather feedback on ongoing projects.li ul pstrongDesirable skills:strongp ul liBasic understanding of data analysis techniques and familiarity with tools like Excel.li liStrong verbal and written communication skills to convey ideas clearly and collaborate effectively with team members.li liAbility to manage multiple tasks, prioritize work, and ensure accuracy and attention to detail in deliverables.li liEagerness to learn problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to contribute to business analysis efforts.li liFamiliarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and an interest in learning new business analysis tools.li ul pstrongEntry requirements:strongp ul liLevel 3 Qualification at least 12 months of work experience* robust onboarding plan (learner must work in the organisation for 3 months before signing up)li liOR business-related degree eg business, finance, economics, maths, etc.li liOR non-business-related degree at least 6 months of work experience*li liOR existing staff member with 2 years of work experience**li ul p*Work experience relates to any valid work experiencep p**Existing staff work experience should not be in a business analyst rolep pYou may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. In this instance you could still be considered for the programme.p pIf you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, at the time of your application you must be able to provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications.p pstrongFor more information please visit the UK ENIC website. strongp pstrongWorking hours: strongp p37.5 hours per week, 8am - 4pm, 9am - 5pm or 10am - 6pm.p pstrongBenefits:strongp ul liFlexible hybrid working.li liFree car parking.li liCompany pension & heath cover.li liHands-on experience working on real projects under the guidance of experienced business analysts and project managers.li liOne-on-one mentoring to provide support, answer questions, and develop your skill set in a structured learning environment.li liExposure to various teams within the organization and opportunities to build professional relationships.li ul pstrongFuture prospects:strongp pCareer development opportunities and the potential to be offered a permanent role within the company on successful completion of the apprenticeship after you have built foundational business analysis skills during your time on the apprenticeship.p pstrongImportant information:strongp pOur apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 30,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we’re a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed.p pstrongApply now!strongp

Location: Glasgow City IT business analysts, architects and systems designers 12.02 per hour Lancashire

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 2 days ago 26 days until closing

Learn more & Apply

New Listing

Data Analyst Apprentice

QA Apprenticeships

pstrongEmployer description:strongp pToolSaver is a collection of trade counter depots throughout the UK supplying today’s tradespeople with the necessary tools, accessories and equipment at competitive prices.p pWe are looking for a driven and adaptable individual with a can do attitude and a passion for technology. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys problem-solving, working with data, and improving systems. Youll play a key role in supporting and developing our internal digital tools and workflows, with the freedom to explore new ideas and technologies.p pstrongResponsibilities:strongp ul liAssist with the development and optimisation of digital systems and tools across the business.li liAnalyse datasets to uncover insights and support data-driven decision-making.li liSupport internal teams with technical queries and small-scale development tasks.li liTake ownership of assigned projects and see them through from concept to completion.li liWork with colleagues to streamline processes through automation or new tech solutions.li liBe hands-on with technology, willing to learn and apply new programming languages or tools as required.li ul pstrongDesirable skills:strongp ul liA general interest in coding, scripting, or data analytics.li liExposure to any of the following: SQL, Python, Java, HTML, or other web technologies.li liExcellent problem-solving skills and the ability to think logically and creatively.li liGood communication skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.li liEnthusiasm for technology and a willingness to try new tools and platforms.li liCurious, motivated, and eager to learn.li liTech-savvy and resourceful with a positive, can do approach.li liComfortable working in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.li liKeen to take initiative and make a tangible impact on systems and workflows.li ul pstrongSalary: strong16,640 per annum.p pstrongWorking hours: strong40 hours per week,strong strongMonday to Friday, 8am 5:30pm.p pstrongBenefits:strongp ul liOn-the-job training and support.li liOpportunities to grow your skillset in coding, data and system development.li liFlexible and innovative working environment.li liEmployment upon completion of apprenticeship.li liOn-site parking.li liHoliday entitlement is 36 days per year including bank holidays.li ul pstrongFuture prospects:strongp p90 of QA apprentices secure permanent employment after completing: this is 20 higher than the national average.p pstrongImportant information:strongp pThis vocational apprenticeship comprehensively supports your specific job role with this particular employer. Throughout your learning journey, you are fully supported by your dedicated QA skills coach and your mentor at work. They ensure you settle in, help you develop all the skills you need to be successful in your job role and pass your assessments, and can provide one to one support.p pStarting with insights into your current potential, they plan your growth in a programmatic way, close skills gaps with immersive training and ensure what you learn is applicable to what you do. They talk you through the specifics on the qualifications you gain and how they align in particular to your day to day role.p pOn completion, as well as the valuable work experience you have gained, you get a nationally recognised qualification at SCQF Level 8.p pIf you are interested in starting your career and receiving a work based qualification at the same time strongAPPLY NOW!strongp

Location: Glasgow City Data analysts 8.00 per hour Lancashire

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 2 days ago 26 days until closing

Learn more & Apply

New Listing

Software Developer Apprentice

QA Apprenticeships

pstrongAt Trafford Council we are EPIC!strongp pstrongWe EMPOWER strongWe inspire and trust our people to deliver the best outcomes for our customers, communities and colleagues.p pstrongWe are PEOPLE CENTRED strongWe value all people, within and external to the organisation and give those around us respect. We will act with honesty and integrity in all that we do and create an environment that enables everyone we work with to thrive and succeed.p pstrongWe are INCLUSIVE strongWe are committed to creating an environment that values and respects the diversity and richness differences bring.p pstrongWe COLLABORATE strongWe build relationships, collaborate; treat people as equal partners and work together to make things happen.p pTrafford is a lively, prosperous place to put down roots and build a career. The council and Trafford schools employ around 8,000 people, who are central to making the area great. In return for their commitment, the council offers its employees development opportunities, as well as a fair and flexible workplace. The council is a Living Wage Employer.p pstrongResponsibilities:strongp ul liSupport the work of the Development team including ongoing maintenance of web-based applications, and bespoke system integrations along with implementation of automation processes and applications.li liSupporting the development of modern, web-based software applications and utilities to supplement and enhance off-the-shelf systems andreviews of business processes using lean methodologies to identify and deliver improvements through standardization, simplification, elimination, and automation.li liAssisting in project planning and execution throughout the entire software development life-cycle, using your technical knowledge to aid implementation.li liSupporting the maintenance and improvement of existing websites, web applications and IT.li liContributing to the communication of software development solutions to a range of internal or external stakeholders to ensure clear understanding of requirements and how they have been met or adjusted.li liSupporting the delivery of one or more software deployment phases, such as trials and final release, to ensure that software developer outcomes are deployed correctly.li liHelping to identify and report any impediments to software development activities and propose practical solutions.li liAssisting with the breakdown of software development activities down into logical units of work to enable sequencing and ensure the best possible structuring of activities to deliver a high-quality product right first time.li liContributing to the creation and updating of council developed software including design and coding (scripting) and debugging on development environments.li liAssisting in the testing, implementation and documentation of council software developed and the ongoing support and maintenance of software and databases &MS Power Platform.li ul pstrongDesirable skills:strongp ul liExperience or knowledge and understanding of coding programmes.li liAwareness of at least one development platform, e.g. Power Platform.li liAwareness of data security, e.g. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).li liAwareness of current trends and new technologies within the industry.li liWere looking for someone curious, motivated, and ready to learn.li liYoull bring a logical approach to problem-solving, attention to detail, and an interest in software development.li liYou should be comfortable using IT, have good communication skills, and be able to manage your workload and meet deadlines.li liExcellent interpersonal and communication skills both written and verbal with the ability to build good working relationships across a wide range of stakeholders, including senior levels of the organisation.li liAn ability to work effectively both individually and collaboratively as part of a team.li liAbility to work flexibly in order to adapt to changing work priorities and service needs.li ul pstrongEntry requirements:strongp ul liThe learner must have completed a Level 3 Software Development Apprenticeship with QA or have an equivalent qualification with another training providerli liOR an A-level in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) subject and a successful completion of our aptitude testli liOR a BTEC Diploma in IT and a successful completion of our aptitude testli liOR 2 years experience in a relevant role and successful completion of our aptitude testli ul pYou may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. In this instance you could still be considered for the programme.p pIf you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, at the time of your application you must be able to provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications.p pstrongFor more information please visit the UK ENIC website. strongp pstrongWorking hours: strong36.25 hours per week.strong strongp pstrongBenefits:strongp pYou will be welcomed into a friendly environment where your personal and professional development will be encouraged. You will have the opportunity to work and grow in a people-centred and values-based organisation that promotes a positive permission culture. Your opinions matter so you will have the opportunity to shape how we do things here at Trafford. We also offer hybrid working.p pstrongFuture prospects:strongp p90 of QA apprentices secure permanent employment after completing: this is 20 higher than the national average.p pstrongAbout QA:strongp pOur apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 30,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we’re a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed.p pstrongInterested? Apply now!strongp

Location: Greater Manchester IT, Software, Web & Telecoms Professional 11.73 per hour Lancashire

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 3 days ago 25 days until closing

Learn more & Apply

New Listing

Level 4 Hospitality Manager @ Exeter College £24,477

Exeter College

Passionate about hospitality, customer service, and education? Want to develop leadership skills in an award-winning training restaurant? Were looking for a dynamic and motivated Apprentice Hospitality Manager to join us. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of hospitality professionals while enhancing the commercial success of our restaurant.

Location: Exeter Catering & Hospitality 24477 per annum Devon

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 4 days ago 8 days until closing

Learn more & Apply

New Listing

Project Manager Apprentice

QA Apprenticeships

pstrongAbout the role:strongp pWestborn Ltd, trading as Kinder Valley, is a leading UK supplier of nursery furniture and textiles to both high street and online retailers. Were looking for a passionate and detail-oriented Project Manager Apprentice to support our Sales team. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain commercial experience while developing core skills in sales data analysis and project coordination for key accounts, including major supermarket chains and e-commerce platforms.p pAs part of your apprenticeship, youll assist with managing large-scale customer orders during promotional periods and events (such as Black Friday, Summer Sales, and Baby events), while using data insights to drive smarter decision-making and support the wider sales strategy.p pstrongResponsibilities:strongp pstrongSales support & project management:strongp ul liAssist in coordinating large customer orders and store roll outs for blue-chip accounts (e.g., Tesco, ASDA, Amazon).li liWork with the sales and operations teams to ensure smooth project delivery, managing timelines and communicating updates.li liLiaise with procurement, logistics, and warehouse teams to track stock availability and shipment status.li liHelp draft pitch documents, delivery schedules, and status updates for internal and external stakeholders.li ul pstrongData analytics & reporting:strongp ul liGather, clean, and interpret sales data using Excel and Odoo ERP dashboards.li liSupport performance reviews by preparing weekly sales reports, customer trends, and forecasting insights.li liMonitor product sell-through rates and flag under performing SKUs.li liProvide admin support on margin analysis and price comparison bench marking.li ul pstrongCommunication & collaboration:strongp ul liCommunicate directly with clients to confirm order details, shipping requirements, and promotional planning.li liAttend team planning sessions and input into forecasting and seasonal product planning.li liSupport cross-departmental collaboration between Sales, Operations, Procurement, and Accounts.li ul pstrongWhat were looking for:strongp pstrongEssential:strongp ul liEnthusiasm for sales, data and working in a fast-paced environment.li liStrong Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, basic formulas).li liA proactive attitude and willingness to learn.li liGood communication and organisational skills.li liAbility to work across multiple projects with accuracy and attention to detail.li ul pstrongDesirable:strongp ul liInterest in the furniture, nursery, or FMCG sector.li liBasic understanding of project management principles.li liPrevious work experience, part-time job, or academic project work involving data or sales.li ul pstrongEntry requirements:strongp ul liLevel 3 Qualification (ApprenticeshipA LevelsBTEC etc).?li listrongORstrong equivalent work experience (typically 2 years in a relevant role).li listrongAND strong5 x GCSEs including English & Maths at Grade 4 (C) or above.li ul pstrongWorking hours: strong40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.p pstrongBenefits:strongp ul liSales experience working with major national retailers.li liReal-world analytics and commercial reporting skills.li liExposure to supply chain, merchandising, and pricing strategies.li liApprenticeship qualification and full training provided.li ul pstrongFuture prospects:strongp pPotential for progression within Westborn Ltd after apprenticeship completion.p pstrongAbout QA:strongp pOur apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 30,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we’re a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed.p pstrongInterested? Apply now!strongp

Location: West Midlands Project Management 9.62 per hour West Midlands

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 4 days ago 24 days until closing